Multiple game tournament

Abstract

To provide an apparatus and a method related to tournaments.SOLUTION: An apparatus comprises one or more processors configured to perform control of: facilitating play of a plurality of different game types by a plurality of players as part of a tournament; based on at least one of an expected return on each game type, an expected chance value of a winning outcome in each game type, and an average win amount in each game type, determining a normalization factor for each game type; based on information received from a plurality of game systems, tracking outcomes of the play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament; and, based on the tracked outcomes, determining a winning player of the tournament from the plurality of players.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 991,049, filed May 9, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Some embodiments may relate to tournaments generally. [Background technology]

[0003] Playing games has become an essential part of personal entertainment around the world. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention is directed to solving the problems of the background art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The following should be understood as exemplary embodiments, not as claims.

[0006] A. An apparatus including one or more processors and one or more non-transitory media storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the apparatus to perform the steps of: determining a plurality of different game types to be available for play in a tournament by a plurality of players; facilitating play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament; tracking results of play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of different players as part of the tournament; and determining a winning player of the tournament from among the plurality of players based on the tracked results.

[0007] A.1. The device of claim A, wherein the plurality of different game types includes sports betting and casino gaming. A.2. The device of claim A, wherein tracking results includes, for each winning game played as part of the tournament, receiving notification of the game outcome and determining an amount of tournament point increments for a player of the plurality of players. A.2.1. The device of claim A.2, wherein the amount includes an amount won by playing the game. A.2.2. The device of claim A.2, wherein determining the amount includes applying a normalization factor to the outcome. A.3. The device of claim A, wherein driving play includes at least one of determining outcomes for a plurality of different game types and adjusting an interface to allow selection of different game types as part of the tournament. A.4. The device of claim A, wherein the device is configured to receive notification of player logins at each of a plurality of gaming devices and apply tournament score adjustments to the player due to game play at the gaming device based on each login. A.4.1. The device of claim A.4, wherein the gaming device includes at least one of a slot machine, a mobile phone, and a sportsbook interface.

[0008] A.5. The device of claim A, wherein the step of determining a tournament winner includes determining, from among a plurality of players, a player with the highest point total at the end of the tournament. A.6. The device of claim A, wherein the step of determining a game type includes receiving a game type selection from an administrator. A.6.1. The device of claim A.6, wherein the step of receiving a game type selection includes receiving a selection of winning outcomes and the likelihood of each outcome occurring for each game type. A.7. The device of claim A, wherein the step of tracking results includes normalizing winnings from each game type by applying a respective normalization factor to each outcome.

[0009] B. A method comprising: determining, by a computing device, a plurality of different game types to be available for play in a tournament by a plurality of players; facilitating, by the computing device, play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament; tracking, by the computing device, results of play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of different players as part of the tournament; and determining, by the computing device, a winning player of the tournament from among the plurality of players based on the tracked results.

[0010] B.1. The method of claim B, wherein the plurality of different game types includes sports betting and casino gaming. B.2. The method of claim B, wherein tracking results includes, for each winning game played as part of the tournament, receiving notification of the game outcome and determining an amount of tournament point increments for a player of the plurality of players. B.2.1. The method of claim B.2, wherein the amount includes an amount won by playing the game. B.2.2. The method of claim B.2, wherein determining the amount includes applying a normalization factor to the outcome. B.3. The method of claim B, wherein driving play includes at least one of determining outcomes for a plurality of different game types and adjusting an interface to allow selection of different game types as part of the tournament. B.4. The method of claim B, wherein receiving notification of player logins at each of a plurality of gaming devices and applying tournament score adjustments to the players due to game play at the gaming devices based on each login. B.4.1. The method of claim B.4, wherein the gaming device includes at least one of a slot machine, a mobile phone, and a sportsbook interface.

[0011] B.5. The method of claim B, including determining a tournament winner, wherein determining a tournament winner includes determining, from among a plurality of players, a player with the highest point total at the end of the tournament. B.6. The method of claim B, wherein determining a game type includes receiving a game type selection from an administrator. B.6.1. The method of claim B.6, wherein receiving a game type selection includes receiving a selection of winning outcomes and the likelihood of each outcome occurring for each game type. B.7. The method of claim B, wherein tracking results includes determining a normalization factor for each game type based on at least one of an expected return for each game type, an expected likelihood of winning outcomes in each game type, and an average winning amount for each game type, and wherein tracking results includes normalizing winnings from each game type by applying a respective normalization factor to each outcome. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system that can be used in some embodiments. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method that may be implemented in some embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary tournament designer interface that may be used in some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] I. Illustrative Embodiments In some embodiments, users may be able to play in tournaments that span multiple games of various types. A typical tournament involves one game. For example, a poker tournament involves the play of multiple hands of poker. However, each hand is the same game, i.e., poker. In various embodiments, users may play in tournaments that include multiple diverse games. For example, some game types may include poker, sports betting, slots, table games, casino games, etc.

[0014] 1 illustrates an exemplary system that may be used in some embodiments. The system may include a central system 101 and any number of gaming systems 103. Each gaming system may allow players to play one or more games. The central system may facilitate and / or track game play across such gaming systems used in a tournament (e.g., by monitoring play, applying metrics that convert play into generalized tournament results, and tracking tournament progress).

[0015] Each gaming system 103 may include a computing device configured to enable game play by one or more players. In some embodiments, such a device may include a player's device, such as a home computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, etc. A player may use such a personal device to log into the gaming system and play games through the gaming system. Play may include multiple different games offered by the system. For example, a gaming system may provide users with the ability to play card games (e.g., blackjack, poker, baccarat, etc.), slot games, roulette, casino games, video games, sports games, etc.

[0016] As another example, gaming system 103 may include dedicated gaming devices. Such devices may be, for example, slot machines, sports betting interfaces, electronic table games, etc. For example, in a casino environment, multiple gaming devices may be arranged around the casino floor. Multiple such devices may operate to enable players to play games through them, for example, by actuating controls to capture inputs and provide output of game elements and / or outcomes. Some embodiments may include a combination of such dedicated gaming devices and personal devices (e.g., a tournament game may be played on a slot machine and another through an iPhone®).

[0017] The central system 101 may operate to enable, facilitate, and / or track tournaments played by multiple players across multiple gaming devices. The central system may include computing devices such as servers, cloud-based systems, etc. Some elements of the central system may track winnings, track funds, track play, determine game outcomes, track game results, provide auditing functions, etc. For example, the central system may maintain account and balance information. As another example, the central system may maintain leaderboard information, prize status information, etc. As yet another example, the central system may maintain a database of players in a tournament and each player's current performance based on tournament play. In yet another example, the central system may generate random numbers to determine the outcomes of games played in a tournament. For example, game outcomes may be determined by the system 101 and transmitted through the devices 103 for display. In some embodiments, gaming devices or other elements may determine outcomes instead of and / or in addition to the central system. For example, a slot machine 103 may determine the outcome of a slot game. That information (eg, amount or number of points won, the win or loss results themselves, etc.) may be received by a central system and used as input for ranking the tournament.

[0018] In some embodiments, the device 103 may facilitate login, for example, by username and password login and / or by card swipe or other token-based signature. Signatures on the device may facilitate communication between the device and the server. The server may host wallet and other account information that may be available to the tournament. This information may be sent to the device in response to the user's login on the device. As users adjust their fund information, a central service may update the information at a central location. Thus, users may access tournament funds on any device and store those funds centrally. The user may then access their account on another device (e.g., another gaming device involved in the tournament) by logging in to that device.

[0019] In some embodiments, a tournament may have a duration. The duration may be based on time and / or a number of games. In some embodiments, for example, the duration may include any amount of time. Such an amount of time may be an hour, 15 minutes, a day, a weekend, a week, a year, etc. In some embodiments, the games played during that duration may apply to the tournament.

[0020] In some embodiments, the duration may include the amount of games. Each game may be weighted so that it counts differently toward the duration, and / or may be weighted equally. For example, in some embodiments, a slot game may count as one game, and a blackjack game may count as two games. Each game may be assigned a weight, which is discernible to players in the tournament. The weighting may be based on the amount of potential winnings, the length of the game, the expected value of play, the length of the game (e.g., longer games have a higher weight), the odds of the game (e.g., better odds have a lower weight), the cost per play of the game (e.g., more expensive games have a higher weight), and / or any desired factor. For example, long games and / or games with high potential payouts may be weighted higher than short games, games with lower expected returns, and / or games with lower potential returns. In such a way, weighting the games may help to equalize the expected profits of players, while still allowing players to play their preferred games. Such an embodiment may be able to distribute play more or less evenly between multiple games.

[0021] In some embodiments, a tournament may require a player to play several different games from a selection of multiple offered games. The central system may notify the player of such a requirement and may track whether the player meets the requirement. A player who does not meet the requirement may be determined by the central system to be ineligible (e.g., ineligible to win the tournament). In such embodiments, a player may be prevented from playing only one game. In some embodiments, a player may be required to play each offered game at least once to be eligible to win the tournament. In some embodiments, a player may be limited to the number of times each game can be played (e.g., once, five times, etc.). A player may be required to play a game that many times or may be limited to playing that many times to qualify for the tournament. If a player plays a game more than the maximum number of times, subsequent plays (i.e., plays after the maximum number of plays) may not count toward the tournament and / or the player may be prevented from playing a game more than the maximum number of times (e.g., the central system may prohibit play). In some embodiments, if the game has been played more than the maximum number of times, the best or worst set of rounds may be applied.

[0022] In some embodiments, the tournament may be timed. For example, the tournament may take place over one hour, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Games played during that time may be eligible. In some embodiments, games may not be weighted or limited in number. In such embodiments, a speed element may be introduced into the tournament as players attempt to win as many games as possible within the time frame.

[0023] In some embodiments, a duration may be specified, although the time may vary. For example, a player may play up to one hour of games for a tournament, with the start time of that time being selected by the player (e.g., within some available time window). In yet another example, the duration of a player's play may not be continuous, but may be cumulative up to a certain duration limit. A central system can track the duration of each player's play to ensure that no player exceeds the duration limit.

[0024] It should be understood that various combinations of consecutive or non-consecutive time limits, game limit limits, and other embodiments may be used together as desired. For example, in some embodiments, players may have a maximum of one hour of tournament play. The tournament may include a maximum number of rounds of each game that will count toward the tournament. Players may be required to play a certain number of games. Players may play more than the maximum number of rounds of each game, but only the best set of rounds played within the time limit and without exceeding the maximum number may count toward the tournament.

[0025] In some embodiments, players may be provided with funds to use in game play in a tournament. These funds may be points, credits, dollars, etc. These funds may be variable based on the amount of a bid and / or may be equal for all players in a tournament. In some embodiments, each player may be provided with the same funds. In other embodiments, players' funds may vary based on the player's bid. Players may use these funds to play games in the tournament across one or more gaming systems. Players may be permitted to use these funds to play in the tournament. Setting a standard bankroll level allows players to compete on a level playing field. Additionally, in some embodiments, players may use their own funds (e.g., money, loyalty points, etc.) in the tournament (e.g., up to a certain amount, any amount, or in place of or in addition to the provided funds).

[0026] In some embodiments, a player may be allowed to play only with allocated funds. In some embodiments, a player may be permitted to play in a tournament with allocated funds and funds won by playing in the tournament using allocated funds. In some embodiments, allocated funds may be restricted to tournament use. A central system may track and validate the use of allocated funds and winnings from using allocated funds. For example, a database of player winnings and funds may be maintained by the central system.

[0027] Also, in some embodiments, allocated funds may be used outside of the tournament, players may use other funds to play in the tournament, and / or other funding mechanisms may exist. In some embodiments, allocated funds may be available for use other than playing in the tournament (e.g., to buy drinks or other items).

[0028] Various games may be offered as part of a tournament. Examples of such games are provided herein and may include single-player games and / or multiplayer games. The games may include fixed odds, such as slot machine games. The games may include odds that may change during the tournament. For example, sports bets may be offered, and the odds on those bets may vary depending on the circumstances (e.g., as the sportsbook balances risks).

[0029] A player may use a gaming device to place a bet on one or more games. A player may select a bet method, a game to play, an amount to bet, etc. for each of multiple games / bets offered through tournaments facilitated by a central system. Various games or bets may include fantasy games, contest entries, sports bets, games of skill, games of chance, games that qualify as bets under the UIGEA, and games that do not qualify as bets under the UIGEA.

[0030] Who wins a tournament may be determined based on their gaming activity in the tournament. The central system 101 may track such funds and track game play and, from that information, determine one or more winners of the tournament. The player who accumulates the most winnings at the end of the tournament may be the winner. Such accumulations may or may not include the amount of funds contributed and / or purchased.

[0031] It should be understood that winnings across each game may be normalized across the games in a tournament based on a weight assigned to each game. For example, if a user wins $100 in a game, that $100 may be weighted by a normalization weight and converted into some other number of points (e.g., 98 points, 108 points, etc.), which may be the score used in the tournament. In some embodiments, such weights may also be applied within the game itself, such that the game may be configured to directly assign points for winnings.

[0032] 2 illustrates an exemplary method that may be implemented in some embodiments by a central system and / or one or more gaming devices to facilitate a tournament.

[0033] Some embodiments may include determining the games to be applied to the tournament. Such determination may include a random determination. Such determination may include a selection made by an administrator or sponsor through an administrative terminal. Such determination may be made before the start of the tournament. Such determination may be made continuously during the tournament. Such determination may include changing one or a few games at a time as the tournament progresses. Such determination may include all games. It should be understood that such determination may be made in any desired manner.

[0034] It should be understood that various methods of determining which games apply to a tournament may be combined as needed. For example, in some embodiments, a new game may be randomly determined to apply to a tournament every 15 minutes. Players may be required to play that game until another game is determined to be eligible for tournament points. As another example, some sponsor may select a particular game that should be eligible for tournament play, and / or the bonus weight for playing that game and other eligible games in the tournament may be randomly determined by a server, such as 101.

[0035] In some embodiments, determining the games may include determining game configurations and / or normalization weights. For example, several games may be determined in which outcome weights are applied to normalize game play across various game types. Various aspects (e.g., expected value, number of winning outcomes, probability of winning outcomes, average win per winning outcome, etc.) may be used in any combination to normalize the games.

[0036] In some embodiments, a step may be included to determine players to participate in the tournament. Such a determination may include determining players who pay a registration fee. Such a determination may include randomly selecting players who meet eligibility requirements (e.g., presence in a certain location, age, having an account with a gaming operator, etc.). For example, the server 101 may determine players who register for the tournament through a mobile application on a player mobile device 103. As another example, the server 101 may determine players playing in the gaming environment based on players who are signed in to a gaming machine 103. Those players may be eligible for the tournament in response to such a determination. Players may be notified of their entry into the tournament, which may be done by transmitting information to the players (e.g., via device 103, intercom, etc.). Player determination may be made before the tournament begins, after the tournament begins, during the tournament, continuously, or at other times. For example, in some embodiments, all players participating in the tournament may be determined based on who registers for the tournament before the tournament begins. As another example, players may be allowed to register to participate in a tournament even after others have finished the tournament. Players may begin playing in the tournament at a time of their choosing. Thus, players may play in the tournament at different times.

[0037] In some embodiments, the step of authorizing the playing of a game in a tournament may include offering a bet through a sports betting interface, offering a game through a gaming interface, etc. Such authorizing may include passing game results to a gaming device. Such authorizing may include including an option in the interface to include the game in the tournament. Such authorizing may include monitoring the play of games used to determine the outcome of the tournament. A user may play an offered game by interacting with the gaming device interface, such as by selecting a game (e.g., selecting to place a bet on a sporting event), operating controls to place a bet, or otherwise playing the selected game. The authorizing step may include always authorizing the same game and / or adjusting the game as the tournament progresses. The authorizing step may include authorizing with restrictions, such as a specified number of times, a specified minimum number of times, etc. The server 101 may facilitate such authorizing by sending and / or receiving display information, results information, etc., to and from the device 103.

[0038] In some embodiments, a step may be included to determine the effect that playing games in a tournament has on the tournament. For example, a central system (e.g., 101) may receive information identifying betting parameters (e.g., sides, amounts, odds, outcomes, etc.), and a winning determination may be made (e.g., from device 103) based on such information. Each player in the tournament may win some amount of money by playing games (e.g., by winning games in the tournament). The winning amount may be tracked for each player over the duration of the tournament. It should be understood that winning amount may refer to actual winning amounts and / or some normalized winning amount based on weighting of game outcomes (which may or may not be the same thing, depending on how and when weighting is applied to the outcomes).

[0039] Some embodiments may include determining a winner of the tournament based on game play. For example, the player with the most wins (the player who wins the most money, points, games, jackpot, etc.) may be determined by a central system as the winner. Various other players may also be winners. For example, the player with the most losses may be a consolation prize. The player with the largest single loss may be some form of winner. The player with the largest single winnings may be considered the winner. The player who wins the second, third, fourth, or lesser amount may also be considered the winner.

[0040] In some embodiments, a step of awarding a prize to a winner may be included. Various types of winners may receive a prize corresponding to a monetary award. For example, the player with the highest overall score in the tournament may be the jackpot prize. The prize may be deposited into a player's account, which may be held by and / or otherwise accessible to the central system. The step of awarding a prize may include depositing the prize money into the account of the player who won the tournament.

[0041] It should be understood that the various examples and discussions regarding Figures 1, 2, and other described embodiments are given by way of non-limiting example only. The various embodiments may work together in any desired combination. None of the described functionality and / or elements are required; other embodiments may include other, different, or the same elements and / or functions.

[0042] In one exemplary embodiment, multiple sports bets may be offered as part of a tournament. These bets may relate to the occurrence of events. For example, these bets may relate to the outcome of an entire game, the outcome of a fantasy game, or ongoing events. Players may compete in tournaments associated with such bets. For example, a series of all-game bets (on one sport, on multiple sports) over the course of a weekend may be offered. Players may compete by playing the offered games. As another example, a series of ongoing events (e.g., will the batter hit the ball, will the play be a run or a pass, will a first down be achieved on this possession, etc.) may be offered depending on the course of the game. These offers may change as the game progresses and as part of the tournament. Players may compete by participating in these games depending on the course of the game, inning, weekend, and / or any other period during which the tournament may take place. While examples relating to sports are provided, some embodiments may include other events, such as any competition (e.g., elections, television programs such as American Idol, etc.).

[0043] As another example, some embodiments may include casino games such as card games, slot games, and the like. Additional games may include games played through mobile devices. Such games may include video games, sports games, casino games, head-to-head games, and the like. While some embodiments are provided with wagering, it should be understood that such an element is not required. For example, in some embodiments, players may play risk-free accumulation games. For example, a video game may operate in a manner in which players play risk-free and accumulate points through their actions in the game. While some embodiments are provided with wagering a selected amount, in some embodiments including wagering, the amount of the bet may be fixed. Such a fixed amount may allow the tournament to focus on playing a large number of games successfully, rather than on risking large amounts at critical moments.

[0044] It should be understood that these examples are given by way of non-limiting example only, and that these examples may be combined and / or modified in any manner (e.g., fixed stake ongoing sports games could be offered along with variable stake video games in a weekend-long tournament).

[0045] In some embodiments, utilities may be included to facilitate the creation of tournaments by an administrator. FIG. 3 shows an example of an interface that may be used to facilitate such creation. The administrator may operate controls to input tournament characteristics (e.g., start time, number of games, end time, number of participants, prizes, bid amount, whether and how games are weighted, etc.). The administrator may define each aspect of the tournament by inputting tournament parameter information. A computing device (e.g., system 101) may accept such information and use it to define the tournament.

[0046] The administrator may be presented with a list of available games. The administrator may select games to add to the tournament. For each game, the device may receive the selection and present the selected game characteristics to the administrator. The administrator may adjust the game characteristics to configure the game for the tournament. For example, the administrator may be presented with a list of possible game outcomes by transmitting such information to a display device forming the computing device (e.g., 101). The administrator may select outcomes that are winning outcomes. The administrator may adjust the likelihood of each winning outcome and / or the amount of money awarded for achieving that winning outcome. These are provided as example parameters only, and other desired parameters may be included depending on the embodiment.

[0047] Based on the selected parameters of the game, the computing device may determine a normalization weight for the game. Such weight may be transmitted (e.g., by server 101) to a display and displayed to the administrator. For example, tournament parameters may indicate that the game should be normalized so that the expected value of game play is the same, the average amount won per win is the same, the probability of winning is the same, and / or any other desired items are normalized. Based on that expressed desire and the selected game parameters, a determination may be made as to how to weight the game to achieve the desired normalization. For example, if a determination is made that the expected return of a game should be 94 cents per dollar, and the expected return of the game configured by the administrator is 95 cents per dollar, then a normalization weight of 94 / 95 may be applied to the game.

[0048] The administrator can add each game, as configured, to the set of games that apply to the tournament by pressing an "Add to Tournament" button. The computing device may record the added games and present a list of added games. The administrator may select games from the added list and adjust or remove them.

[0049] Once the administrator has added the desired games, they can activate the tournament by pressing an "Activate Tournament" button. A computing device (e.g., 101) may accordingly receive notification of the configured tournament and may facilitate player play of the tournament according to its configuration (e.g., by implementing a method such as that of FIG. 2).

[0050] Although examples are given of normalization as games are added, it should be understood that such normalization may occur after the games are added. For example, if normalization based on some characteristic is required after a list of games has been added, the computing device may apply weights to all games after they have been added to the list of desired games, thereby achieving the desired normalization for the games.

[0051] Although an example is given with respect to the server 101 taking actions on the interface of Figure 3, it should be understood that any device may take such actions. The server 101 or other device running the tournament may receive the information determined through such an interface and facilitate the tournament in accordance with the determined information by taking actions such as those shown in Figure 2.

[0052] The following sections provide a guide to interpreting this application.

[0053] II. Terminology The term "product" means any machine, article of manufacture, and / or composition of matter unless expressly stated otherwise

[0054] The term "process" means any process, algorithm, method, etc., unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0055] Each process (whether called a method, algorithm, or otherwise) inherently includes one or more steps, and thus any reference to a "step or steps" of a process has inherent antecedent in the mere recitation of the term "process" or similar term. Accordingly, any reference in a claim to a "step or steps" of a process has sufficient antecedent.

[0056] The term "invention" and the like means "one or more inventions disclosed in this application" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0057] The terms "one embodiment," "embodiment," "embodiments," "the embodiment," "the embodiment," "one or more embodiments," "some embodiments," "particular embodiments," "an embodiment," "another embodiment," and the like mean "one or more embodiments (but not all) of the disclosed invention," unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0058] The term "modification" of an invention means one embodiment of the invention unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0059] Reference to "another embodiment" when describing an embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment described before the referenced embodiment), unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0060] The terms "include," "comprise," and variations thereof mean "including, but not necessarily limited to," unless expressly specified otherwise. So, for example, the statement "This portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets" means that the portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets, but may also include something else.

[0061] The term "consisting of" and variations thereof mean "including and limited to" unless expressly specified otherwise. So, for example, the statement "This portfolio consists of red widgets and blue widgets" means that the portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets, but nothing else.

[0062] The term "comprise" and variations thereof mean "to be a constituent part, component, or member" unless expressly specified otherwise. Thus, for example, the statement "The red widget and the blue widget comprise a portfolio" means that the portfolio includes the red widget and the blue widget.

[0063] The term "exclusively comprise" and variations thereof mean "exclusively comprise a part, the only component, or the only member," unless expressly specified otherwise. Thus, for example, the statement "The red widget and the blue widget exclusively comprise a portfolio" means that the portfolio consists of red widgets and blue widgets and nothing else.

[0064] The terms "a," "an," and "the" mean "one or more" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0065] The term "plurality" means "two or more" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0066] The term "herein" means "in this application, including anything that may be incorporated by reference," unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0067] When modifying a plurality of items (such as an enumerated list), the phrase "at least one of" means any combination of one or more of those items unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the phrase "at least one of widgets, cars, and wheels" means either (i) widgets, (ii) cars, (iii) wheels, (iv) widgets and cars, (v) widgets and wheels, (vi) cars and wheels, or (vii) widgets, cars, and wheels. When modifying a plurality of items, the phrase "at least one of" does not mean "one of each of" the plurality of items.

[0068] When used as a cardinal number to indicate a quantity of something (e.g., 1 widget, 2 widgets), numerical terms such as "1," "2," etc., mean the quantity indicated by the numerical term, and not more than the quantity indicated by the numerical term. For example, the phrase "1 widget" does not mean "at least 1 widget," and thus the phrase "1 widget" does not include, for example, 2 widgets.

[0069] The phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless expressly specified otherwise. That is, the phrase "based on" refers to both "based only on" and "based at least on." The phrase "based at least on" is equivalent to the phrase "based at least in part on."

[0070] The term "corresponds to" and similar terms are not exclusive unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the term "corresponds to" does not mean "corresponds only to" unless expressly specified otherwise. That is, the phrase "this data corresponds to a credit card number" expresses both "this data corresponds only to a credit card number" and "this data corresponds to a credit card number and also to something else."

[0071] The term "whereby" is used exclusively in this specification to precede a clause or set of other words that express solely the intended result, purpose, or outcome of something previously and distinctly described. Thus, when the term "whereby" is used in a claim, the clause or other word that it modifies does not impose any specific further limitations on that claim or otherwise limit the meaning or scope of that claim.

[0072] The term "eg" and similar terms mean "for example," and thus do not limit the term or phrase they describe. For example, in the sentence "a computer sends data (e.g., instructions, data structures) over the Internet," the term "eg" explains that "instructions" are an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet, and also explains that "data structures" are an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet. However, both "instructions" and "data structures" are merely examples of "data," and things other than "instructions" and "data structures" can also be "data."

[0073] The term "respective" and similar terms mean "viewed individually." Thus, when two or more things have "respective" properties, each such thing has its own unique property, and those properties may be different from one another or the same. For example, the phrase "two machines each have a respective function" means that a first such machine has a function and a second such machine likewise has a function. The function of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.

[0074] The term "ie" and similar terms mean "that is," and thus qualify the term or phrase it describes. For example, in the sentence "a computer sends data (i.e., instructions) over the Internet," the term "ie" describes that the "data" that a computer sends over the Internet are "instructions."

[0075] Any given numerical range is intended to include integers and fractions of the numbers within that range. For example, a range "1 to 10" should be interpreted to specifically include integers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, ... 9) and non-integer numbers (e.g., 1.1, 1.2, ... 1.9).

[0076] Where two or more terms or phrases are synonymous (e.g., by expressly stating that the terms or phrases are synonymous), one such instance of the term / phrase does not mean that another instance of such term / phrase must have a different meaning. For example, if a statement makes the meaning of "including" synonymous with "including but not limited to," simply using the phrase "including but not limited to" does not mean that the term "including" means anything other than "including but not limited to."

[0077] III.Decision The term "determine" and its grammatical variations (e.g., determining a price, determining a value, determining objects that meet certain criteria) are used very broadly. The term "determine" encompasses a wide variety of actions, and thus "determine" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, searching (e.g., searching a table, database, or other data structure), ascertaining, etc. Also, "determine" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), etc. Also, "determine" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc.

[0078] The term "determining" does not imply certainty or absolute precision; thus, "determining" can include estimation, inference, prediction, guesswork, and the like.

[0079] The term "determining" does not imply that a mathematical operation must be performed, that a numerical method must be used, or that an algorithm or process must be employed.

[0080] The term "determining" does not imply that a particular device must be used, for example, a computer does not necessarily have to make the decision.

[0081] IV. Sentence Form If a limitation of a first claim covers one feature as well as multiple features (e.g., a limitation such as "at least one widget" covers multiple widgets, not just one widget), and a second claim that depends from the first claim uses the definite article "the" to refer to that limitation (e.g., "the widget"), this does not mean that the first claim covers only one feature, nor does it mean that the second claim covers only one feature (e.g., "the widget" can cover both one widget and multiple widgets).

[0082] When an ordinal number (such as "first," "second," or "third") is used as an adjective before a term, the ordinal number (unless explicitly stated otherwise) is used solely to indicate a particular feature, such as to distinguish that feature from another feature described by the same or a similar term. For example, a "first widget" may be so named solely to distinguish it from, for example, a "second widget." Thus, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" does not imply any other relationship between the two widgets, nor does it imply any other characteristics of either or both widgets. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" does not (1) imply that either widget comes before or after the other widget in terms of order or position, (2) imply that either widget occurs or operates before or after the other widget in terms of time, or (3) imply that either widget ranks above or below the other widget in terms of importance or quality. Furthermore, the mere use of ordinal numbers does not impose a numerical limit on the feature that the ordinal numbers identify. For example, the mere use of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget" does not mean that there cannot be more than two widgets.

[0083] Where a single device, object, or other product is described herein, two or more devices / objects (whether or not operating together) may alternatively be used in place of the single device / object described. Thus, any functionality described as possessed by a device may alternatively be possessed by two or more devices / objects (whether or not operating together).

[0084] Similarly, when this specification describes two or more devices, articles, or other products (whether or not operating together), a single device / article can alternatively be used in place of the two or more described devices or articles. For example, a single computer-based device can be substituted for multiple computer-based devices. Thus, various functionality described as being possessed by two or more devices or articles can alternatively be possessed by a single device / article.

[0085] The functions and / or features of a single described device may alternatively be performed by one or more other devices that are described but not explicitly described as having such functions / features. Thus, other embodiments need not include the described device itself, but instead may include one or more other devices that have such functions / features in those other embodiments.

[0086] V. Disclosed Examples and Terminology are Non-Limiting Neither the Title (which appears at the top of the first page of this application) nor the Abstract (which appears at the end of this application) should be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the disclosed invention, nor should they be used in interpreting the meaning of or limiting the scope of any claim. The Abstract is included herein solely because required under 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b).

[0087] The application titles and section headings provided herein are for convenience only and should not be construed as limiting the disclosure in any way.

[0088] Numerous embodiments have been described herein and are shown solely for illustrative purposes. The described embodiments are not, and are not intended to be, limiting in any sense. As is readily apparent from this disclosure, the invention disclosed herein is broadly applicable to numerous embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosed invention can be implemented with various modifications and alterations, including structural, logical, software, and electrical modifications. Although particular features of the disclosed invention may be described with reference to one or more specific embodiments and / or drawings, it should be understood that, unless expressly stated otherwise, such features are not limited to use with the particular embodiment or drawings for which such features are described.

[0089] While an embodiment may be disclosed as including several features, other embodiments of the invention may include fewer than all such features. Thus, for example, a claim may be directed to less than all features of a disclosed embodiment, and such claim may include no more features than are expressly recited in that claim.

[0090] No embodiment of a method step or product element described herein constitutes or is essential to or refers to the same subject matter as the invention claimed herein, unless expressly stated to be such herein or expressly recited in the claims.

[0091] The preambles of the accompanying claims merely describe the objects, benefits, and possible applications of the claimed invention and do not limit the claimed invention.

[0092] This disclosure is not a literal description of all embodiments of the invention, nor is this disclosure a listing of features of the invention that must be present in all embodiments.

[0093] Not all disclosed embodiments are necessarily protected by the scope of a claim (even if all pending, amended, issued, and cancelled claims are included). Moreover, an embodiment may (but need not) be protected by several claims. Thus, if a claim (whether pending, amended, issued, or cancelled) is directed to a particular embodiment, that is not evidence that the scope of other claims does not similarly protect that embodiment.

[0094] Devices described as communicating with each other need not communicate with each other continuously, unless expressly specified otherwise. Rather, such devices need only transmit to each other as needed or desired, and may in fact refrain from exchanging data most of the time. For example, machines that communicate with other machines over the Internet may not need to transmit data to other machines for extended periods of time (e.g., weeks at a time). Furthermore, devices that communicate with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

[0095] A description of an embodiment with several components or features does not imply that all or any of such components / features are required. Rather, various optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention. Unless expressly specified otherwise, no component / feature is essential or required.

[0096] Although process steps, algorithms, or the like may be described or claimed in a particular order, such processes can be configured to function in different orders. That is, any order or sequence of steps that may be explicitly described or claimed does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed in that order. Steps of processes described herein can be performed in any order possible. Furthermore, some steps can be performed simultaneously, even though they are described or implied as occurring non-concurrently (e.g., because one step is described after another). Furthermore, illustration of a process by drawing depictions does not imply that the illustrated process excludes other variations and modifications to the process, nor does it imply that the illustrated process, or any of its steps, are required by the invention, or that the illustrated process is preferred.

[0097] Although a process may be described as including multiple steps, this does not imply that all or any of those steps are preferred, essential, or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention(s) include other processes that omit some or all of the described steps. Unless expressly specified otherwise, no step is essential or required.

[0098] Although a process may be described in isolation or without reference to other products or methods, in an embodiment, the process may interact with other products or methods. For example, such interactions may include linking one business model to another. Such interactions may be provided to increase the flexibility or desirability of the process.

[0099] Although a product may be described as including multiple components, aspects, qualities, properties, and / or characteristics, this does not indicate that any or all of those multiples are preferred, essential, or required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the described invention(s) include other products that omit some or all of the multiples described.

[0100] Unless expressly stated otherwise, an enumerated list of items (which may be numbered or unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive. Similarly, unless expressly stated otherwise, an enumerated list of items (which may be numbered or unnumbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are exhaustive of any category. For example, the enumerated list "computer, laptop, PDA" does not imply that any or all of the three items in the list are mutually exclusive, nor does it imply that any or all of the three items in the list are exhaustive of any category.

[0101] The listing of items as enumerated (which may or may not be numbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are equivalent to each other or readily substituted for each other.

[0102] All embodiments are illustrative and do not imply that the invention or any embodiment has been made or performed as applicable.

[0103] VI. Computing It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the various processes described herein can be implemented, for example, by appropriately programmed general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, and computing devices. Typically, a processor (e.g., one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more digital signal processors) receives instructions (e.g., from a device such as a memory) and executes those instructions, thereby performing one or more processes defined by those instructions. The instructions may be embodied, for example, by one or more computer programs, one or more scripts.

[0104] "Processor" means one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), computing devices, microcontrollers, digital signal processors or such devices, or any combination thereof, regardless of their architecture (e.g., chip-level multiprocessing / multicore, RISC, CISC, microprocessors with non-interlocked pipeline stages, pipelined, simultaneous multithreading).

[0105] Thus, a description of a process is also a description of apparatus for performing that process. Apparatus for performing a process may include, for example, a processor, and input and output devices suitable for performing the process.

[0106] Furthermore, programs (as well as other types of data) implementing such methods can be stored and transmitted in numerous ways using a variety of media (e.g., computer-readable media). In some embodiments, hardwired circuitry or custom hardware can be used in place of, or in combination with, some or all of the software instructions capable of implementing the processes of various embodiments. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software, as well as software, can be used.

[0107] The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium, media, or combination of various media that participate in providing data (e.g., instructions, data structures) that may be read by a computer, a processor, or a similar device. Such media may take many forms, including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes main memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a system bus coupled to the processor. Transmission media may include or convey acoustic waves, light waves, and electromagnetic radiation, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, a DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with a pattern of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a Flash EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave as described below, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0108] Various forms of computer-readable media can be used to carry data (e.g., sequences of instructions) to a processor. For example, data can (i) be sent to the processor from RAM, (ii) be carried over a wireless transmission medium, (iii) be formatted and / or transmitted in accordance with numerous formats, standards, or protocols, such as Ethernet (or IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth, TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA, 3G, etc., and / or (iv) be encrypted to protect privacy or prevent fraud in any of a variety of ways well known in the art.

[0109] Thus, a description of a process is also a description of a computer-readable medium that stores a program for performing that process. The computer-readable medium can store (in any suitable format) those program elements that are suitable for performing the method.

[0110] Just as the description of various steps in a process does not indicate that all steps described are required, apparatus embodiments include computers / computing devices operable to perform some (if not necessarily all) of the described processes.

[0111] Similarly, just as the description of various steps in a process does not indicate that all steps described are required, embodiments of a computer-readable medium storing a program or data structure include computer-readable media that store a program that, when executed, can cause a processor to perform some (if not necessarily all) of the described process.

[0112] When describing a database, those skilled in the art will understand that (i) alternative database structures to the described database can be readily used, and (ii) other memory structures other than a database can be readily used. Any illustrations or descriptions of any sample databases shown herein are exemplary configurations for stored information representation. For example, any number of other configurations other than those suggested in the tables shown in the drawings or elsewhere can be used. Similarly, the entries in any illustrated databases represent only exemplary information, and those skilled in the art will understand that the number and content of entries may differ from the number and content described herein. Furthermore, despite any description of a database as a table, other formats (including relational databases, object-based models, and / or distributed databases) can be used to store and manipulate the types of data described herein. Similarly, object methods or database operations can be used to implement various processes, such as those described herein. Furthermore, databases can be stored in known manner, either locally or remotely from devices that access data in such databases.

[0113] Various embodiments can be configured to function within a network environment, including a computer in communication with one or more devices (e.g., via a communications network). The computer can communicate with those devices directly or indirectly through any wired or wireless medium (e.g., the Internet, a LAN, a WAN, or Ethernet, token ring, telephone lines, cable lines, radio channels, optical communications lines, commercial online service providers, bulletin board systems, satellite communications lines, or any combination of the above). Each of the devices can itself be a computer or can include other computing devices, such as those based on Intel® Pentium® or Centrino™ processors, that are adapted to communicate with the computer. Any number and type of devices can communicate with the computer.

[0114] In one embodiment, a server computer or centralized authority may not be necessary or desirable. For example, the present invention may, in one embodiment, be practiced on one or more devices without a centralized authority. In such an embodiment, any functions described herein as being performed by a server computer, and any data described as being stored on a server computer, may instead be performed by or stored on one or more such devices.

[0115] When describing a process, in one embodiment the process can function without any human intervention, while in another embodiment the process includes some human intervention (e.g., a step is performed by or with the assistance of a human).

[0116] VII. Continuing Applications This disclosure provides one of ordinary skill in the art with an enabling description of several embodiments and / or inventions, some of which may not be claimed in this application, but may be claimed in one or more continuing applications claiming benefit of priority to this application.

[0117] Applicant intends to file further applications to pursue subject matter disclosed and enabled but not claimed in this application.

[0118] VIII. Waiver Numerous references to a particular embodiment do not imply a waiver or negation of additional various embodiments, and similarly, references to descriptions of embodiments all including a particular feature do not imply a waiver or negation of embodiments that do not include that particular feature. Any explicit waiver or negation in this application will be preceded by the words "does not include" or "cannot perform."

[0119] IX. Review Process In interpreting this application (including the claims), those skilled in the art should refer to the prosecution history of this application, and not to any other patents or patent applications, regardless of whether there are other patent applications that may be considered related to this application and whether there are other patent applications that share a claim of priority with this application.

[0120] XX. Alternative technology It is understood that the techniques described herein for making, using, or implementing the embodiments are among other possible techniques that may be used for the same or similar purposes. The particular techniques described herein should not be construed as limiting. Rather, the embodiments are intended to contemplate alternative techniques for making, using, or implementing the embodiments.

[0121] [Appendix 1] one or more processors; one or more non-transitory media storing instructions, the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, determining a plurality of different game types to be available for play in a tournament by a plurality of players; facilitating play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament; tracking the results of the play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of different players as part of the tournament; determining a winning player of the tournament from among the plurality of players based on the tracked results; Device. [Appendix 2] 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of different game types includes sports betting and casino gaming. [Appendix 3] The step of tracking results comprises: for each winning game played as part of the tournament, receiving notification of the outcome of the game and determining an amount of tournament points increment for a player of the plurality of players; 10. The apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Appendix 4] 4. The device of claim 3, wherein the amount includes an amount won by playing the game. [Appendix 5] 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the determining the amount includes applying a normalization factor to the result. [Appendix 6] 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the step of promoting play includes at least one of determining the outcome of the plurality of different game types and adjusting an interface to enable selection of the different game types as part of the tournament. [Appendix 7] 10. The device of claim 1, configured to perform the steps of receiving notification that a player has logged in at each of a plurality of gaming devices, and applying an adjustment to the tournament score based on game play at the gaming device to the player based on each login. [Appendix 8] 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the gaming device comprises at least one of a slot machine, a mobile phone, and a sportsbook interface. [Appendix 9] 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to perform a step of determining a winner of the tournament, the step of determining a winner of the tournament including a step of determining a player from among the plurality of players who has the highest total number of points at the end of the tournament. [Appendix 10] 10. The device of claim 1, wherein determining the game type includes receiving a selection of the game type from an administrator. [Appendix 11] 11. The device of claim 10, wherein receiving the game type selection includes receiving a selection of winning outcomes and the likelihood of each outcome occurring for each game type. [Appendix 12] the apparatus being adapted to determine a normalization factor for each game type based on at least one of an expected return for each game type, an expected probability of a winning outcome in each game type, and an average winning amount in each game type, wherein tracking outcomes includes normalizing winnings from each game type by applying a respective normalization factor to each outcome; 10. The apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Appendix 13] determining, by a computing device, a plurality of different game types to be available for play in a tournament by a plurality of players; facilitating play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament, via the computing devices; tracking, by the computing device, the results of the play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of different players as part of the tournament; determining, by the computing device, a winning player of the tournament from among the plurality of players based on the tracked results; A method comprising: [Appendix 14] 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the plurality of different game types includes sports betting and casino gaming. [Appendix 15] The step of tracking results comprises: for each winning game played as part of the tournament, receiving notification of the outcome of the game and determining an amount of tournament points increment for a player of the plurality of players; The method described in Appendix 13. [Appendix 16] 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the amount includes an amount won by playing the game. [Appendix 17] 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the determining the amount comprises applying a normalization factor to the result. [Appendix 18] 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of driving play includes at least one of determining outcomes of the plurality of different game types and adjusting an interface to enable selection of the different game types as part of the tournament. [Appendix 19] 14. The method of claim 13, comprising receiving notification that a player has logged in at each of a plurality of gaming devices; and applying an adjustment to the tournament score for the player based on each login at the gaming device. [Appendix 20] 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the gaming device comprises at least one of a slot machine, a mobile phone, and a sportsbook interface. [Appendix 21] determining a winner of the tournament, wherein the step of determining a winner of the tournament includes determining a player from among the plurality of players who has the highest total points at the end of the tournament; The method described in Appendix 13. [Appendix 22] 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the step of determining the game type includes receiving a selection of the game type from an administrator. [Appendix 23] 23. The method of claim 22, wherein receiving the game type selection includes receiving a selection of winning outcomes and the probability of each outcome occurring for each game type. [Appendix 24] determining a normalization factor for each game type based on at least one of an expected return for each game type, an expected probability of a winning outcome in each game type, and an average winning amount in each game type, wherein tracking the results includes normalizing winnings from each game type by applying a respective normalization factor to each outcome; The method described in Appendix 13.

Claims

1. one or more processors, Facilitating the playing of multiple different game types that can be played by multiple players as part of a tournament; determining a normalization factor for each game type based on at least one of an expected revenue for each game type, an expected chance value indicating the likelihood of a winning outcome for each game type, and an average winning amount for each game type; tracking results of play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament based on information received from a plurality of game systems, wherein tracking of results includes normalizing winning amounts from each game type by applying a respective normalization factor to each result, wherein winning amounts won in each game are normalized among games in the tournament based on normalization weights assigned to the games, and wherein, for a given game type, a given amount won is weighted by a given normalization factor against a number of points that is a given score used in the tournament for the given game type; and determining a winner of the tournament from the plurality of players based on the tracked results; the one or more processors configured to control Device.

2. The plurality of different game types includes sports betting and casino games.

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

3. tracking the results includes, for each winning first game played as part of the tournament, receiving an indication of a first game outcome and determining an amount of tournament point increments for players of the plurality of players, the tournament points being points accumulated by players by playing games in the tournament; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

4. the amount of the increment is a function of the amount won by playing the first game; 4. The apparatus of claim 3.

5. determining the amount of the increment includes applying a normalization factor to the outcome of the first game; 4. The apparatus of claim 3.

6. and facilitating play includes adjusting an interface to allow selection of the plurality of different game types as part of the tournament.

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

7. the one or more processors are configured to control: receiving an indication of a player logged into each of a plurality of gaming machines; and tracking, based on each login, a total of tournament points accumulated by players playing games in the tournament from game play by the player on the gaming machine.

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

8. The gaming device includes at least one of a slot machine, a mobile phone, and a sportsbook interface.

8. The apparatus of claim 7.

9. the one or more processors are configured to control determining a winner of the tournament by determining a player from the plurality of players who has the highest total tournament points accumulated from games played in the tournament at the end of the tournament.

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

10. the one or more processors are configured to control receiving the selection of the game type from an administrator terminal and determining the game type.

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

11. receiving the selection of game types includes receiving a selection of winning outcomes defining an amount of points earned in a game that is a winning outcome of the game type, and a chance value of each selected winning outcome occurring in each game type, the chance value indicating the likelihood of winning for the game; 11. The apparatus of claim 10.

12. The computer device Facilitating the playing of a plurality of different game types that can be played by a plurality of players as part of a tournament, the different game types being offered on a plurality of gaming systems communicatively coupled to the computer device; determining a normalization factor for each game type based on at least one of an expected revenue for each game type, an expected chance value indicating the likelihood of a winning outcome for each game type, and an average winning amount for each game type; tracking results of play of the plurality of different game types by the plurality of players as part of the tournament based on information received from a plurality of game systems, wherein tracking of results includes applying a respective normalization factor to each result to normalize winning amounts from each game type, wherein winning amounts won in each game are normalized among games in the tournament based on normalization weights assigned to the games, and wherein, for a given game type, a given amount won is weighted by a given normalization factor against a number of points that is a given score used in the tournament for the given game type; and determining a winner of the tournament from the plurality of players based on the tracked results; Control the method.

13. The plurality of different game types includes sports betting and casino games. The method of claim 12.

14. tracking the results includes, for each winning first game played as part of the tournament, receiving an indication of a first game outcome and determining an amount of tournament point increments for players of the plurality of players, the tournament points being points accumulated by players by playing games in the tournament; The method of claim 12.

15. the amount of the increment is a function of the amount won by playing the first game; 15. The method of claim 14.

16. determining the amount of the increment includes applying a normalization factor to the outcome of the first game; 16. The method of claim 15.

17. and facilitating play includes adjusting an interface to allow selection of the plurality of different game types as part of the tournament. The method of claim 12.

18. the computer device controls receiving an indication of players logged into each of a plurality of gaming machines, and tracking, based on each login, a total of tournament points accumulated by players playing games in the tournament from game play by the players on the gaming machines; The method of claim 12.

19. The gaming device includes at least one of a slot machine, a mobile phone, and a sportsbook interface.

20. The method of claim 18.

20. the computer device controls determining a winner of the tournament by determining the player among the plurality of players who has the highest total tournament points accumulated from games played in the tournament at the end of the tournament; The method of claim 12.

21. The computer device is configured to receive the selection of the game type from an administrator terminal and determine the game type. The method of claim 12.

22. receiving the selection of game types includes receiving a selection of winning outcomes defining an amount of points earned in a game that is a winning outcome of the game type, and a chance value of each selected winning outcome occurring in each game type, the chance value indicating the likelihood of winning for the game; 22. The method of claim 21.

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